Our campsites in Dordogne
in New Aquitaine
What’s your next vacation destination? Why not treat yourself to a getaway and book a campsite in the Dordogne?
With Cottage Parks, choose an ecological campsite with authentic charm, nestled in this magnificent département. With its lush green valleys, peaceful rivers, picturesque villages and historic sites, the Dordogne is as photogenic as it is relaxing.
Explore the must-see places for a holiday in perfect harmony with nature and typical architecture. Pack your bags and let yourself be charmed by the Dordogne’s gentle way of life for an unforgettable vacation!
The Dordogne, the ideal destination for your camping vacation
In the heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, the Dordogne is a prime destination for camping vacations, ideal for lovers of nature, history and gastronomy.
This enchanting département attracts many visitors every year in search of authenticity and exceptional landscapes.
With its verdant valleys, lush forests and winding rivers, the Dordogne is perfect for a rejuvenating break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Hikers and bikers will find marked trails through emblematic natural sites such as the Dordogne valley, the forests of Périgord Noir and the cliffs of the Cingle de Montfort, offering spectacular panoramas and remarkable biodiversity.
The Dordogne’s cultural heritage is also uniquely rich. You can explore the famous Lascaux caves and their prehistoric paintings, as well as some of France’s most beautiful villages, such as Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac. The many castles, such as Castelnaud and Les Milandes, will immerse you in the medieval history of Périgord.
The warm, colorful local markets invite you to sample Perigord specialties such as foie gras, walnuts and goat’s cheese. Summer evenings at the night markets are an ideal opportunity to sample the region’s conviviality and gastronomy.
Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet, outdoor adventures or cultural discoveries, the Dordogne promises unforgettable camping vacations in the heart of unspoilt nature and heritage.
What to see in the Dordogne during your camping vacation
The Dordogne, with its diverse landscapes and unspoilt nature, is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here is a selection of unmissable natural sites to discover during your camping holiday in this magnificent département.
- The Dordogne Valley: Known for its steep cliffs and hilltop villages, this valley offers spectacular scenery along the Dordogne River. It’s a popular spot for canoeing, hiking and nature walks.
- Lascaux cave: Located in Montignac, this prehistoric cave famous for its cave paintings is an archaeological treasure trove. Lascaux IV, a faithful replica, allows visitors to explore Paleolithic art while preserving the original.
- Marqueyssac Gardens: These magnificent hanging gardens overlook the Dordogne valley, offering exceptional panoramic views. The winding paths and plant sculptures make this a unique place for a peaceful stroll.
- Proumeyssac chasm: nicknamed the “Crystal Cathedral”, this impressive chasm features illuminated stalactite and stalagmite formations. A fascinating experience for lovers of geology and underground landscapes.
- La Bessède forest: This vast forest offers numerous hiking trails and perfect spots for observing the local flora and fauna. It’s an ideal place to recharge your batteries and enjoy the peace and quiet.
- Les étangs de La Jemaye: This large natural site, in the heart of the Double forest, is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking and walking. There are paths and beaches for the whole family to enjoy.
- Les gorges de l’Auvézère: Between waterfalls, forests and cliffs, this wild site is perfect for hikers and outdoor adventurers. Trails wind along the river, offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
- Le cingle de Trémolat: A remarkable natural site, this loop of the Dordogne offers an exceptional viewpoint. Perfect for contemplation and photography, it’s an emblematic spot in the region.
- The cliffs of Roque Saint-Christophe: This troglodytic cliff, inhabited for thousands of years, is home to a unique historical site. The caves and terraces overlooking the Vézère River offer a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric and medieval life.
To visit in Dordogne
Picturesque towns and villages
The Dordogne, a land of history and charm, is brimming with towns and villages with remarkable heritage. These picturesque spots are all gateways to this culturally rich département, where authenticity and a gentle way of life come together in harmony.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Capital of the Périgord Noir region, Sarlat is a beautifully preserved medieval town, famous for its golden stone architecture. Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit the Saint-Sacerdos cathedral, and discover the local market brimming with Périgord specialities.
Beynac-et-Cazenac
Listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages, Beynac is dominated by an imposing château overlooking the Dordogne. The village, with its stone houses and lauze roofs, offers an exceptional panorama of the valley. A must-see for medieval heritage enthusiasts.
La Roque-Gageac
This troglodyte village, set against a cliff, is distinguished by its blond stone houses and Mediterranean vegetation. Explore the exotic garden and take a gabarre ride on the Dordogne to discover the valley from the river.
Domme
This 13th-century royal bastide is perched high above the Dordogne and offers one of the finest panoramic views in the region. Stroll through the flower-filled streets and visit the stalactite-adorned underground grotto. The Porte des Tours, a former Templar prison, is an emblematic passageway.
Montignac
Montignac is famous for the Lascaux cave, a treasure trove of prehistoric art. The village itself, with its half-timbered houses and bridges over the Vézère, is charming. A walk along the river and a visit to Lascaux IV will immerse you in the local history.
Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, this riverside village is ideal for lovers of tranquillity and Romanesque architecture. Visit the Romanesque church and the Manoir de la Salle, and take a stroll along the banks of the Vézère to admire the lush green countryside.
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil
The capital of prehistory, this village is a must for archaeology enthusiasts. Visit the National Museum of Prehistory and the surrounding troglodyte sites. The cliffs and natural shelters make this a fascinating place, imbued with mystery and beauty.
Brantôme
Nicknamed the “Venice of the Périgord”, Brantôme is a charming town built around its Benedictine abbey and the River Dronne. Stroll along the water’s edge, visit the abbey and explore the surrounding caves. Brantôme is also renowned for its artisan workshops and market.
Monpazier
This 13th-century bastide is a model of medieval architecture. Its arcades, central square and old houses make it a unique, perfectly preserved place. Monpazier is a listed site where every corner exudes the history of the Périgord.
Saint-Amand-de-Coly
Saint-Amand-de-Coly, a small village built around an impressive fortified abbey, is perfect for those seeking peace and authenticity. The abbey and its cloister are real architectural treasures, surrounded by bucolic landscapes.
Landmarks in the Dordogne
Things to do in Dordogne
During your eco-chic camping holiday
The Dordogne, between nature and heritage, offers a multitude of activities for vacations rich in discovery and relaxation.
Here are a few ideas to make your stay in the Dordogne an unforgettable experience:
- Take to the trails of the Dordogne valley, explore the hills of Périgord Noir or the panoramic views of the Auvézère gorges.
- Take advantage of the river for canoeing, kayaking or even a trip in a gabarre, a traditional boat. These activities offer a unique view of the villages and castles along the river.
- Visit the Marqueyssac hanging gardens for a landscape walk, or explore the famous Lascaux caves and Proumeyssac chasm for an immersion in prehistoric art and subterranean wonders.
- Enjoy a relaxing day at the water’s edge on the ponds of La Jemaye or the beaches along the Dordogne. These places are perfect for swimming, picnicking and fishing in the heart of nature.
- Stroll through the markets of Sarlat or Brantôme to discover local products and flavours.
- Immerse yourself in history and art at the Musée National de Préhistoire in Les Eyzies, or visit artisan workshops and galleries in Montignac and Terrasson.
Culinary specialities of the Dordogne
Among the must-try dishes, foie gras and Périgord black truffles take pride of place: foie gras, unctuous and refined, can be enjoyed in terrine, pan-fried or accompanied by onion jam, while truffles, with their unique aroma, sublimate dishes during the winter season. Duck is also a star on Périgord tables, whether served in magret, confit or rillettes, adding a touch of character to meals.
When you visit the local markets, you’ll find an abundance of walnuts, used in both sweet and savory dishes, as well as in the form of artisanalwalnut oil, which adds intense flavor to salads and traditional dishes. Cabécous, small mature goat’s cheeses, are also delicious, often served at the end of a meal with a little local honey. On the sweet side, Périgord walnut cake and pastis, a soft pastry with orange blossom, offer the perfect end to Périgourdine meals.
To accompany these dishes, Bergerac and Monbazillac wines, with their sweet, fruity notes, are ideal with foie gras or desserts. Last but not least, for lovers of digestives, Périgord walnut liqueur is a local specialty that perfectly rounds off a richly flavored meal.
Dordogne: events
all year round
To take full advantage of the Dordogne’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage, here are a few not-to-be-missed annual events:
- Truffle festival in Sarlat – January
- The Sarlat Theatre Games Festival – July
- La Félibrée (Perigord culture and heritage) in a different town each year – Beginning of July
- Périgord Noir Festival (classical and baroque music) – July to October
- Monpazier Medieval Days – August
- Bergerac Food and Wine Festival – November
- Périgueux Christmas Market – December
An extended list and up-to-date information are available on the websites of the tourist offices and the Conseil départemental de Dordogne.
Book your eco-friendly campsite in Dordogne with Cottage Parks
Choose eco-friendly accommodation in the Dordogne with Cottage Parks and enjoy an authentic experience in the heart of exceptional natural landscapes.
Our eco-responsible campsites, nestled in unique settings, offer you the ideal setting to recharge your batteries, while respecting the environment. Whether you prefer to stay close to the winding rivers of the Dordogne, the wooded valleys of the Périgord or picturesque villages, each site invites you to explore the region’s natural and historical wonders.
With Cottage Parks, combine well-being, discovery and respect for nature for an unforgettable vacation. Book today and discover the Dordogne in a different way, taking part in sustainable tourism that promotes the region’s treasures and supports local producers.